Discover the Best of Singapore: A Guide for First-Time Visitors in 2025

Tourism plays a crucial role in Singapore's economy. Last year, over 13 million international visitors explored this vibrant city. Despite being an island, Singapore offers a wealth of experiences. The city continually upgrades and adds new attractions to ensure that visitors return time and again.

If you plan to visit Singapore in 2025, this guide will highlight must-see places and activities. These experiences will immerse you in Singapore’s rich culture, heritage, and culinary delights. Once you explore these attractions, you will surely want to return and discover more hidden gems.

Planning Your Stay in Singapore

As a first-time visitor, aim to stay for at least five nights. This duration allows you to soak in the atmosphere and enjoy a relaxed experience. One of the best ways to explore the city is through the Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour. This tour gives you a feel for the city and its key attractions. Alternatively, you can create your own itinerary using public transport or taxis to visit your chosen spots.

Suggested Itinerary for First-Time Visitors

Here are some suggestions for your first visit to Singapore:

1. Singapore Flyer

Experience the city from above on the Singapore Flyer, Asia’s largest observation wheel. Located on Raffles Avenue, this attraction offers a 30-minute ride in a glass capsule. Enjoy a 360-degree view of iconic landmarks like Marina Bay Sands, the Singapore River, Raffles Place, and Merlion Park. On a clear day, you might even catch a glimpse of Sentosa Island!

The Singapore Flyer complex also features food stalls, art exhibitions, and the Time Capsule, a multisensory family activity showcasing Singapore’s heritage.

For a unique experience, consider the 165 Sky Dining, a four-course meal served in a revolving dining capsule. This unforgettable dining experience costs SGD 520 for a couple over 90 minutes.

The Singapore Flyer operates daily from 10 AM to 9:30 PM. Tickets can be booked online, priced at SGD 40 for adults and SGD 25 for children and senior citizens for the Singapore Flyer and Time Capsule combo.

2. Singapore Zoo

Located in the Mandai Wildlife Reserve, the Singapore Zoo is a must-visit for nature lovers and families. The zoo recently launched Kidzworld, home to the Ranger Buddies, allowing children to interact with animals up close. The zoo operates from 8:30 AM to 6 PM. Other sections of Mandai include the Bird Paradise, Night Safari, and River Wonders.

If you want to spend a full day here, start with a unique dining experience: Breakfast in the Wild. The breakfast menu features planet-friendly dishes made from sustainably sourced ingredients. Visitors can also enjoy photo opportunities with orangutans, African penguins, sea lions, and more!

The Singapore Zoo offers a complimentary tram ride, allowing you to explore the park at a relaxed pace while listening to stories about the animals. If you’re traveling with children, consider covering the Singapore Zoo, Night Safari, and River Cruise over two days.

3. Botanic Gardens

The Botanic Gardens are Singapore's first UNESCO World Heritage Site. Founded in 1859, these gardens were designed in the English Landscape Movement style. They played a significant role in fostering agricultural development in Singapore. Spanning 82 acres, the Botanic Gardens hold a vital place in the region's history. It is the only tropical botanic garden on the World Heritage List.

Depending on your schedule, be sure to visit the National Orchid Garden and the Heritage Museum, along with many other beautiful gardens.

4. Sentosa Island

No trip to Singapore is complete without a visit to Sentosa Island. This resort island off the southern coast is famous for its beaches, theme attractions, and family-friendly activities.

Sentosa’s history dates back over a century when it served as a British military base. During World War II, the Japanese occupied it and turned it into a prisoner-of-war camp. In the 1970s, the island was renamed Sentosa, with plans to transform it into a tourist destination.

Key attractions include Universal Studios, Resorts World Sentosa, Wings of Time, and Adventure Cove Waterpark. Sentosa is conveniently connected by cable car, monorail, and road. Accommodation options are also available for those wishing to spend more time enjoying the island's attractions.

5. Gardens by the Bay and Marina Bay Sands

Before you leave Singapore, set aside time for a visit to Marina Bay Sands and Gardens by the Bay.

Marina Bay Sands is a luxury hotel that has become a landmark in the city. Even if you’re not staying there, visitors can access the SkyPark Observation Deck on the 56th floor. This deck offers stunning views of the cityscape and Gardens by the Bay.

Gardens by the Bay spans 105 hectares and was planned in 2006 to transform Singapore into a premier garden city. This park features waterfront gardens, the SuperTree Grove, the Flower Dome (the world’s largest glass greenhouse), and many other themed gardens. It is recognized as one of Asia’s top garden destinations.

Many activities are held here, such as the Disney Garden of Wonders. You can easily spend a few hours strolling through the gardens. There are also numerous cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy a snack while you explore!

More to Explore in Singapore

The attractions listed above are just a few highlights that every first-time visitor should experience. Singapore has a wealth of other attractions and entertainment options to enjoy. Once you have a general experience of the city, your next visit can be tailored to include activities that match your interests.

Singapore hosts numerous international sporting events, music festivals, and religious celebrations. You may want to plan your trip to coincide with these exciting events. If you’re a food enthusiast, indulge in Michelin-starred restaurants or explore local street food at hawker centers.

Conclusion

Singapore is a dynamic city that offers a unique blend of culture, history, and modernity. With so much to see and do, your visit will undoubtedly be memorable. Plan your trip wisely, and you will discover the many facets of this incredible destination.

Corporate Concierge Solutions is a travel concierge that creates customized itineraries to Singapore, offering more than traditional packages. Visit our website to learn more about attractions in Singapore and the various packages we can curate for you. Alternatively, contact our Travel Concierge for personalized assistance!